Vitamin K Deficiency Linked to Impaired Lung Function
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Vitamin K Deficiency Linked to Impaired Lung Function: Associated with Increased Risk of Asthma, COPD, and Wheezing
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Vitamin K Deficiency Linked to Impaired Lung Function: Associated with Increased Risk of Asthma, COPD, and Wheezing.
A study published in “ERJ Open Research” has revealed a connection between low levels of vitamin K in the blood and poor lung function, including conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
According to research published on August 9th in the journal “ERJ Open Research,” individuals with lower levels of vitamin K in their blood experience worse lung function and are more susceptible to asthma, COPD, and wheezing.
Vitamin K is found in leafy green vegetables, plant oils, and grains. It plays a role in blood clotting, aiding in wound healing, but its role in lung health has been relatively unexplored.
The researchers mentioned that while their findings don’t alter current recommendations for vitamin K intake, they do support further investigation into whether some individuals could benefit from vitamin K supplementation.
This study was conducted by a group of Danish researchers from Copenhagen University Hospital and the University of Copenhagen. The study involved 4,092 participants aged between 24 and 77 residing in Copenhagen.
Participants underwent lung function tests, provided blood samples, and answered questionnaires related to their health and lifestyle. Blood tests included a biomarker for low levels of vitamin K in the body, dp-ucMGP.
Lung function tests measured the amount of air a person can exhale forcefully in one second (forced expiratory volume in 1 second, FEV1) and the total amount of air they can inhale in one forceful breath (forced vital capacity, FVC).
Results Regarding Vitamin K and Lung Function
The researchers found that individuals with lower vitamin K levels had lower average FEV1 and FVC values. Those with lower vitamin K levels were also more likely to have COPD, asthma, or wheezing.
Dr. Torkil Jespersen, one of the researchers, stated, “We already know about the vital role of vitamin K in the blood, and research is beginning to suggest its importance for heart and bone health as well. However, research on vitamin K’s role in the lungs is limited. To our knowledge, this is the first study on a large general population that examines the link between vitamin K and lung function. Our findings suggest that vitamin K may play a role in maintaining lung health.”
Foods Rich in Vitamin K
Vitamin K is crucial for blood clotting and bone health and exists in two main forms: K1 and K2. Vitamin K1 is primarily found in leafy greens like kale, spinach, and broccoli, as well as certain plant oils.
On the other hand, vitamin K2 is mainly found in fermented foods like natto, animal products like liver and egg yolks, fatty meats, and hard cheeses. A diverse diet incorporating these foods ensures a balanced intake of both forms of this essential nutrient.
Implications and Ongoing Research
“Our findings, in and of themselves, won’t change current recommendations for vitamin K intake. However, they do indicate a need for further research into whether certain individuals, such as those with lung diseases, could benefit from vitamin K supplementation.”
The research team is currently conducting a large clinical trial, the InterVitaminK trial, which compares vitamin K supplements with placebos to observe their impact on heart and bone health in the general population. Based on new research findings, they plan to incorporate lung function analysis into this trial.
Expert Commentary
Dr. Apostolos Bossios from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, not involved in the study, commented, “This study suggests that individuals with low vitamin K levels in their blood may have poorer lung function. Further research will help us understand this connection better and explore whether increasing vitamin K could improve lung function. Meanwhile, we can all strive for a healthy, balanced diet to support our overall well-being, along with measures like not smoking, exercising, and minimizing exposure to air pollutants to protect our lungs.”
Vitamin K Deficiency Linked to Impaired Lung Function: Associated with Increased Risk of Asthma, COPD, and Wheezing
(source:internet, reference only)
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